Overview

Moats was a productive two-year starter for the James Madison defense. He is a short, compact defensive end who will have to project to outside linebacker at the next level. Moats is a high-motor defender who brings leadership and toughness to a club. He utilizes strong hands and long arms to control defenders and set the edge. He runs well and flashes range in pursuit but can be inconsistent with angles to leverage the ball. Moats is an instinctive pass rusher who shows a variety of moves and counters to beat less-athletic blockers. He has enough athleticism to be effective in zone coverage but lacks lateral agility and burst in man coverage schemes. Moats was extremely active in his role with the James Madison defense, but transitioning to a stand-up position in the NFL will be a challenge.

Strengths

Moats has a compact, muscular build and plays with good leverage. Fast enough to be a sideline-to-sideline player and has the lateral agility to be effective in zone coverage. Sets the edge with proper hand technique and has an arsenal of pass-rush moves. High-motor kid who fights to the whistle every play.

Weaknesses

Takes inconsistent angles in run support, which neutralizes his speed. Does not sink his hips and loses speed in transition, making him a liability in man coverage. Must learn how to play linebacker after lining up at end in college. Division I-AA athlete who will have a steep learning curve at the next level.